Bachelor of Science (BSc) Majoring in Exercise and Sport Science
University of OtagoAbout this program
Bachelor of Science (BSc) Majoring in Exercise and Sport Science
The Bachelor of Science (BSc) is a three-year undergraduate degree which enables each student to develop his or her own interests in a science subject (science major) and related subjects. Students have the flexibility to combine their major subject with other science subjects, as well as subjects from other disciplines across the University.
Why study Exercise and Sport Science?
Our curriculum is aligned with Sport and Exercise New Zealand, and Exercise and Sport Science Australia. After completing our major you will be prepared for their accreditation tests.
Our flexible approach means that you can combine with other major and minor subjects within the School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, to provide multiple specialisations to align with your interests. The practical components of study provide opportunities for clinical, lab, or field experience.
Admission requirements
The minimum requirement for students is the completion of a high school qualification plus satisfactory completion of one year's study at an approved tertiary institution or successful completion of New Zealand Foundation Year Program.
We also accept the following International qualifications: International Baccalaureate: IB Diploma with a minimum of 24 points; GCE Advanced Levels: minimum grade of 8.
If your first language is not English you need to meet our English language requirements as follows:
- IELTS score of 6.0 in the academic module (with no individual band below 5.5);
- Internet-based TOEFL: Score of 80 (writing 20), Paper-based TOEFL: Score of 550 (TWE 4.5);
- We also accept a number of other English language tests. Due to COVID-19, we currently accept IELTS Indicator Test, and TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition.
Don't meet the English language requirements? The University of Otago Language Centre "English for Otago" Program offers a pathway for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to meet the English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate study.
Does this course require proof of English proficiency?
The TOEFL iBT® test is accepted by 11,500 universities and higher education institutions in over 160 countries. Book your test today!
Learn moreChat with students
Program content
100-level
- Sport, Science and Society
- Principles of Exercise for Health and Performance
- Anatomy for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192)
- Physiology for Sport and Exercise (or HUBS 191 and HUBS 192)
200-level
- Biomechanics
- Motor Behaviour
- Exercise Physiology
- Psychology of Sport and Exercise
300-level
Four of:
- Performance Analysis
- Exercise Energetics and Physiology
- Sport Psychology
- Athletic Conditioning and Rehabilitation
- Practicum
- Neural Control of Movement
Scholarships & funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please check the university website for more information.
Program delivery
Application details
Applicants must apply online. They should also attach all the necessary supporting documents which includes scanned copies of their official high school or foundation transcripts (awards gained, marks, grades); scanned copies of the relevant official transcripts of previous university study; and provide proof of their identity: this is usually achieved by providing a certified copy of the personal details page of their passport or a birth certificate (in English). Applicants may also be required to submit an Educational Credential Evaluators report (ECE). As soon as applicants have completed their online application, their proof of identity document must be posted to International Office, University of Otago, PO Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand. International student applications for semester 1/summer school study close: Oct-31; Semester 2 study close: Apr-30.
Tuition
International tuition fees per year: 38999 NZD
Continuing studies
Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons)) is also available.
A specific aim of the Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons)) degree is to develop advanced theoretical and research skills and in so doing to provide a platform for an advanced professional or academic career.
Career paths
There are numerous opportunities for graduates in Exercise and Sport Science.
Our graduates build careers in roles such as:
- Sport scientist
- Exercise physiologist
- Mental skills trainer
- Performance analyst
- Technique analyst
- Strength and conditioning trainer
- Sport / health industry research and development
- Personal trainer
- Exercise prescription adviser
Message the school
About this institute

University of Otago
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's first university. Otago has gained an excellent international reputation for its research and teaching. Ranked among the world’s top 1% of universities according to QS World University Rankings, Otago students...
Why study at University of Otago
Otago’s approachable, world-renowned teaching staff are dedicated to fostering creativity and independence and helping students achieve their visions for the future.
Otago graduates are globally in demand, with 95 percent of graduates going on to employment or further academic studies. Otago’s Social Impact Studio provides volunteering and leadership opportunities, while programmes like Audacious support start-ups and entrepreneurs.
Otago boasts some of the best completion rates for a doctorate or master’s qualification in the world, with exceptional supervisory support.
At Otago, old meets new, from iconic historic buildings to modern, award-winning laboratories and teaching spaces, on one of the most beautiful campuses in the world.
Contact info
University of Otago
Want to know more about Bachelor of Science (BSc) Majoring in Exercise and Sport Science? Fill out the following form and we'll pass your details on to a representative from the school, who will respond to your enquiry.
Be the first to write a review!